Been asked to plan a bucks party, or set to attend one soon? Then you may be
wondering what a bucks party is, and what happens at a bucks party. A bucks
party (also known as a bachelor party) is an important event, marking the groom- to-be’s transition into married life.
One of the key parts of the lead-up to a wedding, these typically male-only
events celebrate the groom-to-be’s last night as a single man/bachelor, while
also being a chance for him to gather with his closest male friends and family.
Typically involving activities, drinking, and lots of socialising, they’re a fun way to have a big night out before the groom gets married.
We can trace bucks parties back to the 5th century BC, all the way to Ancient Sparta. In those days, bucks parties were extravagant banquets held by Spartan soldiers, typically at the groom-to-be’s family home. They’d involve a toast to the groom-to-be, while he gave a pledge of loyalty to the attendees.
These days, bucks parties are much more light-hearted events, involving
activities, frivolity, and a party-like atmosphere. Ancient bucks parties,
meanwhile, were more serious, formal affairs. Of course, if you’re a groom-to-be that loves traditions (or you’re organising a bucks party for a groom who doesn’t mind a throwback) then a sit down dinner is never a bad option!
Bucks parties are a chance for grooms-to-be to celebrate their last night as a
bachelor, as well as give their friends and family a chance to show the groom-to-be how much they appreciate them. Bucks parties allow for social groups to make memories together, as well as bring together different groups that are
important parts of the groom’s life.
They’re the male equivalent of a hen’s party/bridal shower, and are an important part of the transition from singledom to married life. A great bucks party can be the source of many happy memories for years to come, which is why we’re so passionate about getting the planning right!
Films like The Hangover and Bachelor Party might make bucks parties look like the ultimate source of debauchery and hedonism, but they’re not always like that. At a typical bucks party, men will have a few beers together, and take part in some activities, including golf, paintball, go karting, or poker.
What happens at a bucks party depends on the groom-to-be, and their preferences. Some grooms-to-be will go for a low-key, laid-back affair with a few close male confidantes, while some others will want their best man to organise a wild party they won’t remember. If you are organising a bucks party, make sure you check in with the groom-to-be before booking everything in!
If you’re wondering how to plan a bucks party, then there are a few things you’ll want to do. You should:
- Speak with the groom-to-be (and/or some close friends) to understand
what they want from a bucks party, and what they want to avoid
- Work with the groomsmen to chip in for the bucks party and establish a
bucks party
- Choose the activities based on the groom-to-be’s interests
- Put together a guest list (more on that in a moment)
- Book everything in, and enjoy the fun!
Stumped by what to organise for a bucks party? Don’t sweat it. From the tame to the truly out there, we’ve got activities that’ll make the party a winner!
Wondering who should make the cut when putting together the guest list for a bucks party? This might just be the most important part of the event, as you want to balance inviting who the groom wants there, with group dynamics. Of course, the best man, and the groomsmen, are a must!
Planning a wild night? It may make sense to avoid inviting too many of the groom-to-be’s family, especially older members. On the other hand, if it’s set to be a little more laid-back, then inviting family and friends can make for a memorable occasion. Either way, give the buck a heads up before you finalise the guest list—that way, you can ensure you haven’t forgotten anyone!
While they are undoubtedly a ton of fun, bucks parties are also an important part of the lead-up to a wedding, and the transition from single to married life. If you’re planning a bucks party, but need a bit of help, then our team at The Bucks Co are ready to take care of the planning, so you can focus on having fun.
We organise bucks parties across Australia, including in Melbourne, in Adelaide, on the Gold Coast, in Perth, on the Sunshine Coast, in Sydney, and in Brisbane.
Is a destination bucks party on the cards? You can’t go wrong with a trip to Bali, and we can help you make it a holiday full of a lifetime’s worth of memories!
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